Composer

:

Gerald Near

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Magnificat

Average_duration

:

3:32

Gerald Near's 'Nunc Dimittis' is a choral work that was composed in 1984. It was premiered on March 3, 1985, by the Choir of St. John's Episcopal Church in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The piece is written for SATB choir and is based on the text of the Nunc Dimittis, which is a canticle from the Gospel of Luke. The work is divided into three movements, each of which reflects a different aspect of the text. The first movement is marked "Andante con moto" and is characterized by a gentle, flowing melody that is passed between the different sections of the choir. The second movement is marked "Allegro moderato" and is more lively and rhythmic, with a driving pulse that propels the music forward. The final movement is marked "Adagio" and is the most contemplative of the three, with a sense of peaceful resignation that reflects the text's message of acceptance and release. Throughout the work, Near employs a variety of choral techniques to create a rich and complex texture. The choir is often divided into multiple parts, with different sections singing different melodies or harmonies that interweave and overlap. Near also makes use of dissonance and chromaticism to create a sense of tension and release, particularly in the second movement. Overall, 'Nunc Dimittis' is a beautiful and moving work that showcases Gerald Near's skill as a composer and his deep understanding of choral music. Its three movements offer a rich and varied musical experience that is sure to resonate with audiences and performers alike.

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